NATE Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps Practice Exam

The combined output of a heat pump and its auxiliary heat should not exceed the calculated heat loss of a home by more than ____%.

1. 10%

2. 15%

3. 20%

4. 25%

The correct answer is: 15%

The optimal combined output of a heat pump and its auxiliary heat should not exceed the calculated heat loss of a home by more than 15%. This is based on the need for efficient system operation and energy consumption while ensuring that the system provides adequate heating without oversizing. When the output significantly exceeds the calculated heat loss, it can lead to inefficiencies, increased energy costs, and potential complaints from occupants about temperature fluctuations. It’s crucial for heating systems to be sized properly to match the heat requirements of the space. Oversizing can result in short cycling, where the system turns on and off frequently, leading to wear and tear and reduced operational life. With a threshold of 15%, this boundary helps maintain a balance between adequate heating capacity and system efficiency. It also promotes optimal performance, ensuring that the heat pump operates within its design parameters while minimizing excess energy consumption.